Ghosts of Mississippi

Director: Rob Reiner

Cast: Alec Baldwin, Whoopi Goldberg, James Woods, Craig T. Nelson, William H. Macy

Genre: Drama 1996

Running time: 130 mins.

Rating:★★★★

In 1963, Myrlie Evers (Whoopi Goldberg) worked for the conviction of the white supremacist who murdered her husband, heroic civil rights leader Medgar Evers, through two hung juries and over 30 years. 

As much as there has been great deal of people fighting for civil rights and as much as we have progressed in carrying out such equality, it is historical events as this film illustrates that reminds us two things. One, we haven't really progressed toward true equality and how much fear and ignorance will bring the true horror of mankind can lash out on each other. How can a woman, like Myrlie Evers, keep her dignity and her strength when racial prejudice is working against her? As well as many don't see the point rehashing the past through another trial when it's the past? Is it too late to do right thing? It is when it was a political crime, a loss of a beloved husband, and the murder still roams free. Determination and passion can achieve the goal in mind, but it takes patience too. 

But with most of the witnesses dead and most of the evidence gone, the only chance, lawyer, Bobby DeLaughter (Alec Baldwin) has in winning this case is to resurrect the dead! It becomes all too clear that THAT is easier said than done. "Legally integrated, but emotionally always segregated." Now, isn't that bit of truth hard to swallow and heartbreaking, even looking at the society we live in today.

But after justice was finally served, a feeling of overwhelming joy! It just goes to show that it is never too late to do the right thing! A compelling film from beginning to end!